Scars Tell a Story … the One’s You Can See, and the One’s You Can’t!

Scars make us who we are. They speak to us, and say you’re strong, they are a testament to bravery, and not a sign of weakness. Scars are signs of survival and endurance leaving us stronger and more resilient, more equipped to face the present. They tell a story. Sometimes a story that is hard to hear. The scars on my chest, the beating of my heart fosters my appreciation for life- these are the few things that matter. It is beautiful to live, really live, and to have the marks to prove it. A testament to inner strength. Living and being a part of this world is beautiful, smile-worthy, despite any tears. Instead of allowing life experiences to bring us down or stunt our growth, we should instead try to make this what propels us into beautiful, strong, compassionate individuals.

Most of us know that physicians are great at healing physical pain, but how do we take care of the emotional pain that is sometimes slow to heal? It is heartbreaking to witness the emotional pain children endure after heart surgeries. I am a med-nurse for children at heart camp on the beautiful island of Catalina. Some kids have had heart transplants, a few have pacemakers and defibrillators, while others have congenital heart conditions. Being on an island, there were lots of water activities for the kids to enjoy, but for some it was something they would shy away from. Taking off their shirts and revealing their scars was horrifying to some children. This struck a chord with me. I realized how difficult it was for kids to accept their scars. They wanted to cover their chests because it hurt to look at the scars, be reminded of painful memories, and they were afraid people would notice something was different about them; they were self-conscious, and fearful. I showed the kids that I had scars too. “You’re just like me.” Remarkably, these courageous little ones started to understand that they were not alone, and that little imperfections are okay. When bad things happen, we don’t instinctively feel happy, and/or beautiful, but we don’t need to despair. Joy and beauty are everywhere, in everything, in every one of us – no matter how we look, or hurt temporarily. When people ask about scars, tell them your story. Let them know that the scars are a divine sign that you were granted another chance at life. Out of suffering emerge the strongest souls. Never walk away without a smile on your face, a zing in your step, and a high dose of faith in your heart. You are a survivor. Be proud of your scars for they are the emblems of a truly phenomenal life — Love yourself!

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What is an AED?

An automated external defibrillator (AED) is a lightweight, portable device that delivers an electric shock through the chest to the heart.

The shock can stop an irregular rhythm and allow a normal rhythm to resume in a heart in sudden cardiac arrest.

Sudden cardiac arrest is an abrupt loss of heart function. If it’s not treated within minutes, it quickly leads to death.

Most sudden cardiac arrests result from ventricular fibrillation. This is a rapid and unsynchronized heart rhythm starting in the heart’s lower pumping chambers (the ventricles).

The heart must be “defibrillated” quickly, because a victim’s chance of surviving drops by 7 to 10 percent for every minute a normal heartbeat isn’t restored.

Why are AEDs important?

AEDs make it possible for more people to respond to a medical emergency where defibrillation is required. Because AEDs are portable, they can be used by nonmedical people. They can be made part of emergency response programs that also include rapid use of 9-1-1 and prompt delivery of cardio pulmonary resuscitation (CPR). All three of these activities are vital to improving survival from cardiac arrest.

How does an AED work?

A built-in computer checks a victim’s heart rhythm through adhesive electrodes. The computer calculates whether defibrillation is needed. If it is, a recorded voice tells the rescuer to press the shock button on the AED. This shock momentarily stuns the heart and stops all activity. It gives the heart the chance to resume beating effectively. Instructions guide the user through the process.

Who can use an AED?

Ideally, everyone would receive training on the use of an AED. Unfortunately, most people's first interaction with an AED occurs during a life or death situation when a co-worker, friend, or passerby suffers cardiac arrest. So people without a medical background are encouraged in a crisis to respond by opening the AED, following the instructions and administering the necessary treatment. Most states have Good Samaritan Laws that protect laypersons offering emergency aid.

Are AEDs safe to use?

AEDs are safe to use. Studies have shown that 90 percent of the time AEDs are able to detect a rhythm that should be defibrillated. And 95 percent of the time they are able to recommend NOT shocking when the computer shows defibrillation is not indicated.

About Angie Edgerly

She is a whirlwind of activity, always on the go, always dreaming up new projects. She has a passion to help people who are suffering. This has led her to Kenya, Haiti, and camps on Catalina Island and West Virginia.

Rescue Hearts Expands

Rescue Heart is growing.
If you have an interest in learning how to open a Rescue Heart Chapter in your town or city, please contact Angie Edgerly on Contact Page or at 714-222-2400. We welcome all inquiries.